Fire-alarm system.



PATENTED AUG. 7, 1906.

P. E. TARLTON.

FIRE ALARM SYSTEM.

APPLICATION FILED JUNE.10,1905.

7 SHEETSSHBBT 1 v witwmeo I MMLQZHM 1n: NORRIS PETERS 60., WASHINGTON, Dc.

PATENTED AUG. '7; 1906.

P. E. TARLTON. FIRE ALARM SYSTEM. APPLIOATION FILED JUNE 10, 1905.

7 SHEETSSHEET 2.

amucwtoz Fear] 2 Tar/L 07 11 1 fwwoeo No- 828,000. PATENTED AUG! '7,L906.

P. B. TARLTON.

FIRE ALARM SYSTEM.

APPLICATION FILED JUNE 10,1905.

' 7 SHEETS-SHEET 3.

INF: NORRIS PETERS 00., WASHINGYON, 1:. c.

PATBNTED AUG. '7, 1906.

P. E. TARLTON. FIRE ALARM SYSTEM. APPLICATION FILED JUNE 10. 1905.

'7 SHEETSSHEET 4.

8 vwanlf 61, 'FW/Z 722/50,

I vi messes atto'awug No. 020,000. PATENTED AUG. 7, 1900. P.E.TARL TON.FIRE ALARM SYSTEM.

APPLICATION FILED JUNE 10,1906.

7 SHEETSSHEET 6.

I LED) JO 1/93 Hwoau No. 828,000. PATENTED AUG. 7. 1900.

' P. B. TARLTON.

FIRE ALARM SYSTEM.

APPLIUATION FILED JUNE), 1905.

7 SHEETS-SHEET 7.

NEH 6 J0 0 46 'Qmi Hmon s nu: umzms ps'rsns coxvusmwsmu, n. c

UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE.

PEARL E. TARLTON, OF ADA, OHIO. ASSIGNOR TO THE AMERICAN MAGNETIC FIREALARM COMPANY, OF ADA, OHIO, A CORPORA- TION OF OHIO.

FIRE-ALARM SYS-TEIVI.

Specification of Letters Patent.

Patented Aug. 7, 19L6.

Application filed June 10, 1905. Serial No. 264,587-

To a. whom, it may concern:

Be it known that I, PEARL E. TARLTON, a citizen of the United States,residing at Ada, in the county of Hardin and State of Ohio, haveinvented certain new and useful Immovements in Fire-Alarm Systems, ofwhich the followin is a specification.

This invention relates to electric signaling systems, and has specialreference to animproved fn'e-alarm system or apparatus comprising simpleand practical means for accura'tely sounding a fire-alarm and operatinga suitable fire-district indicator to exhibit at a station or stationsthe number of the fire-district for which the alarm is given.

To this end the invention primarily involves an improved indicatormechanism embodying means for indicating the numbers of variousfun-districts in a municipality or town and a magneto-electricgenerating mechanism operatively related to said indicator mechanism andcomprising means for first selecting the number of the fire-district forwhich the alarm is to be given and then controllin the indicatormechanism to be operated in such manner as to indicate that number.

A special object of the invention is to provide an indicator mechanismwherein one indicator or plurality of indicator mechanisms may beoperated separately or synchronously, according to the number to beindicated.

A further object of the invention is to provide novel improvements inthe magnetoelectric generating mechanism whereby line alarms or gongswill be sounded during the operation of the apparatus and also whereby agenerator indicating-signal will be sounded after the proper number ofturns of the generator have been made, thus indicating to the operatorthat the complete operation of the indicator mechanism has beeneffected.

WVi'th these and other objects in view,which will more readily appear tothose familiar with the art as the nature of the invention is betterunderstood, the same consists in the novel construction, combination,and arrangement of'parts, which will be hereinafter more fullydescribed, illustrated, and claimed.

The essential features of the inventioninvolved in carrying out theobjects above indicated are necessarily susceptible to a wide range ofstructural modification without departing from the scope of theinvention; but a preferred embodiment of the latter is shown in theaccompanying drawings, in which,

Figure 1 is a complete elevation of the em tire apparatusconsisting ofthe generating and'indicatormechanisms. Fig. 2 is a front elevation ofthe indicator mechanism, show ing the case-cover removed to more clearlyexpose the parts of the separate indicators which are arranged intandem. Fig. 3 is a top plan view of the construction shown in Fig. 2.Fig. 4 is a v rtical sectional view through one of the indicators on theline 4 4 of Fig. 3. Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view through one of theindicators on the line 5 5 of Fig. 3, but illustrating the cover-case inposition to show more clearly the relation of the window and'theexterior set ting-knob for each indicator. Figs. 6 and 7 are enlargeddetail views showing different positions of the escapement-wheel andrelease-pallet of each indicator. Fig. 8 is an enlarged fragmentaryplan'view of a section of an escapement-wheel and the electricalcontrolling means therefor. Fig. 9 is a front elevation of theelectromagnetic generator mechanism with the front cover andselec'ting-poii'iters removed. Fig. 10 is a sectional view on the line10 10 of Fig. 9, exposing in end elevation one of the magneto-electricgenerators. Fig. 11 is asimilar view on the line 11 11 of Fig.

.9, exposing'in'end elevation the other of the electromagneticgenerators. Fig. 1.2 is a horizontal sectional view on the line 12 12 ofFig. 10. Fig. 13 isa vertical cross-sectional view on the line 13 13 ofFig. 9. Fig. 14 is a fragmentary plan, showing more clearly theoperative relation of the circuit-controlling drum, the shiftablecontact-brush, and the clutch device for the circuit-controlling drum.Figs. 15 and 16 are detail sectional views on the line 15 15 of Fig. 14,showing different positions of the clutch device for thecircuitcontrolling drum. Fig. 17 is a detail in perspective of theclectrically-controlled releasepallet of each indicator. Fig. 18 is adiagrammati 0 view showing the circuit-wire connections of the system.

Like reference characters designate corresponding parts in the severalfigures of the drawings.

As pointed out in the statement of invention, the latter includes in itsgeneral organization two separate operatively-related mech-'anismsnamely, a magneto-electric generating mechanism and an indicatormechanism, the latter being arranged at a suitable station or stationson the line and set into operation from a distance by the generatingmechanism to provide or indicating the number of the fire-district forwhich the alarm may be sounded.

In its preferable adaptation the indicator mechanism includes twoseparate indicators (designated in their entirety, respectively, by theletters A and B, and ,of duplicate construction and action, thoughcapable of being operated. either separately or synchronously.) Both ofthe indicators A and B are designed to be housed within any suitablecasing 1, provided with a box-cover 2, having in the front wall thereofthe separate windows 3 and 4, which are arranged in spaced relation anddesigned to respectively lie in front of the dial 5 of the separateindicators A and B, as plainly shown in Figs. 1 and 5 of the drawings.This construction provides for a thorough housing and protection of theindicator mechanism while at the. same time freely exposing to view thenumbered dial 5 of each indicator. Inasmuch as each of these indicatorsis of duplicate construction and action, a specific description of onewill suffice for the other.

Referring particularly to the construction of each indicator, it will beobserved, as stated, that the same includes as a part thereof the dial5, which is. preferably in the form of a stationary ring having an opencenter 6 and held supported immediately behind one of the front windowsof the casingl through the medium of a plurality of circularly-groupedand horizontally-arranged sup porting-arms 7, which may be convenientlysecured at what may be-termed their inner ends to the back of the casing1 and at their front ends to the dial or dial-ring 5, although any otherequivalent supporting means may be utilized for holding the dial 5 inplace.

The dial 5 of each indicator is provided upon the front face thereofexposed through the adjacent window with a series of preperly-spacednumerals arranged in clockwise order i. 0., from left to rightandplaying over the numbered face on the dial is an indicating-hand 8,having an operative movement from left to right, like the hand of aclock and secured fast on the indicator-shaft 9, arranged horizontallyand. journaled in suitable bearings 10, provided in the opposite arms ofa carrying-yoke 11, arranged at the upper end of a supporting-pedestal12, which may be conveniently mounted on the base of the casing 1.

The indicator-hand 9 of each indicator is designed to be rotated in onedirection under the influence of suitable shaft-actuating orshaft-rotating means, such as a spring or weight, but preferably throughthe employment of an operating-weight 13, suspended from one end of aflexible operating-cord or equivalent connection 14, passed over aguiding-wheel 15, which may be conveniently journaled on one of thesupporting-anns 7 for the dial. The other end of the flexibleoperating-cord or equivalent connection. 14 winds and unwinds on a spool16, made fast on the indicator-shaft 9 between the arms of the yoke 11,and at one side of the spool 16 said shaft has mounted. fast thereon anescape-wheel 17, having projected from one side thereof near itsperiphery a circular series of regularly-spaced. stop-pins 18. Thesestop-pins are preferably of a triangular form to present flat basesadapted to be arrested upon the separate spaced detent elements 19 and20 of an electrically-controlled. releasepallet 21.. The upper end ofthe releasepallet 21 is widened to provide the detent element 19, whilethe detent element 20 con sists of a separate finger offset from thepallet 21 by a bracket-arm 20' and lying in spaced parallel relationwith the detent element 19, but in a lower plane than the latter, sothat as the pallet 21 is retracted in a direction away from the escape-wheel the stop-pin 18 upon the detent element 19 is displaced from thelatter and drops onto the other secondary detent element 20 and. isarrested by the latter until the return movement of the pallet carriesthe said stop-pin into the interval between the two detent elements, andthus entirely clears or frees the escape-wheel, as may be plainly seenfrom Figs. 6 and 7 of the drawings.

The electrically-controlled release-pallet is pivotally supported at itslower end, as at 22, in a bearing-bracket 23 upon the insulatedmechanism-base 24, mounted in a hori- Zontal position within thecarrying-yoke 11, projecting beyond opposite sides of said yoke. Theamplitude of movement of the release-pallet 21 is controlled through themedium of an adjusting-screw 25, extending up through the base 24, andengaged by a stoparm 26, offset from the pallet 21. and above itspivotal point 22. The said pallet is normally drawn in a directiontoward and in engagement with the escape-wheel through the medium of aretracting-spring 27. This retracting-spring is connected at one md tothe pallet 21, and at its other end to a tension-adjuster 28, mountedupon the mechanism-base 24. The movement of the pallet in the oppositedirection is electrically controlled, the electric controlling meansconsisting of an armature 29, carried by the pallet, and a pair ofelectric release-magnets 30, mounted upon the base 24 and having anadjusting device 31 connected therewith to provide for properly settingthe same in relation to the armature controlled. thereby.

In the operation of each indicator just de log scribed the circuit isintermittently closed I cator A has an indicator-wire connection 9 andopened through the electric release-magnets 30, thus causing anintermittent oscillation of the release-pallet 21 with the result ofpermitting the escape-wheel to be actuate-d .under the influence of itsactuating device to provide for turning the {hand 8 around the dial tothe number which is to be indicated. After each indicator has been thusoperated the hand is turned back to the zero or starting point throughthe medium of a setting device preferably consisting of an exteriorsetting-knob 32, projecting through the center of tl e casing-window infront of the dial and suitably fitted on the outer end of theindicator-shaft 9. The indicatinghand is arrested at the zero-point whenturned backward by the device or knob 32 by means of a stop projection33, carried by the escape-wheel 17 and adapted to come into engagementwith a corresponding pro jection 34, carried by the release-pallet ofthe armature, which is rigid therewith, as may be plainly seen from Fig.8 of the drawings.

Usually in operating the system it is preferable to control and read theseparate inditors A and B in unison. Hence while each indicator isseparately controlled in the sense of the operator selecting the numberto be indicated it will be understood that in indicating a districtwhose number is greater than five (which is the highest numeral shown inthe drawings) the hand of one indicator will point to one digit of thenumber and the hand of the other indicator to the other digit of thesame numberfor instance, one dial indicating 2 and the other 4, whichindicates that the alarm is given for fire-district number 24. Anysuitable wiring for accomplishing this result may be resorted to; butfor purposes of illustration there is shown in the drawings a simplewiring for tl indicator mechanism which consists in providing the caseof the indicator mechanism with the binding-posts a, b, and c, as shownin Figs. 2 and 18 of the drawings. The magnets 30 of indicator A haveone terminal connected by tho magnet-wire d to the binding-post a, andthe other terminal connected by the magd with the binding-post c. Forthe indicator B the terminals of the magnets 30 have a magnet-wireconnection a with the binding-post I), and a wire connection 6 with thebinding-post c. The binding-posts c are in a common return-circuitincluding common-return-wire connections f and f, and a return-wirebinding-post c, forming a part of a group of binding-posts a, I), and c,fitted on the case 36 of the generating mechanism now to be described.These binding-posts a l), and 0, show the points of connection forwiring the generating mechanism with the corresponding binding-posts ofthe indicator mechanism, and at this point it will be observed that thebinding-post a for the indiwith the binding-post a of the generatingmechanism, while the binding-post b of the indicator B has acorresponding indicatorwire connection g with the binding-bost b of thegenerating mechanism. The relation of these wire connections to those ofthe generating mechanism will be pointed out in the description of thediagram. h reinaftcr referred to.

The generating mechanism as an entirety is housed within the case 36,arranged at any suitable point from which an alarm is to be sent in. Thecase is closed at one side by a cover 37, upon which are mountedseparate dial-segments 38 and 39, which dial-segments are numberedcorresponding to the numbers on the indicator-dials 5. Over the saiddialsegments are arranged to work, respectively, the separateselecting-pointers 38 and 39. These separate sclectingpointers 38" and39 respectively control the separate indicators A and B t. 0., toprovide means for setting the apparatus to any number desired to beindicated on the dials of the separate indicators. Each of theselecting-pointers 3S and 39 is in the form of a swinging lever-armprovided at a convenient point with a manipulating-button 40 and havingat its free end the holding element 41, adapted to have a snapengagement with catch-notches 42, provided on the dial-segments 3S and39 to provide means for holding the selectingpointers in their adjustedpositions,said pointers having a suflicicnt spring to permit of beingforced out of and into the notches, while at the same time obtaining afirm interlocked connection therewith while at rest. Each of theselecting-pointers 38 and 39 has fast connection at one end with theouter end of a short rock-shaft 43, extending through the cover 37 andcarrying upon its inner end at the inner side of the cover a swingingshifterarm 44, having an insulated carrier-fork 45, adapted to looselyengage over a shifting oxtension or arm 46 of a sliding brush-holder 47,carrying a shiftable contact-brush 48, cooperating with a rotarycircuit-controlling drum 49, constituting a part of acircuit-controlling device associated with and forming a part of themagneto-electric generators G and G, mounted within the case 36 andcoupled together for synchronous operation, while at the same time beingindividually related, respectively, to the separate indicators A and Bof the indicator mechanism. The selecting-pointer 38 is associated withthe shiftable contact-brush for the magneto-electric generator G, andthe selecting-pointer 39 is similarly associated with the shiftablecontact-brush for the magnetoelectric generator G.

The generators G and G are substantially of duplicate construction, andreferring particularlyto such construction it will be observed that eachgenerator embodies the gen eral features of an ordinary magneto-electricgenerator namely, that of a rotary armature rotating between the polesof a permanent magnet-and from the commutator of each armature thecurrent is taken by brushes in the usual manner. It is preferable incarrying out the present invention to employ in the construction of eachof the generators a plurality of permanent field-magnets of theinverted-horseshoe type and arranged in upright position upon themechanism-base 51, mounted within and on the bottom of thegenerator-case 36. The series of permanent horseshoe-magnets 50 of eachgenerator G and G may be conveniently secured in place through themedium of a plurality of retainingbolts 52, arranged in the intervalsbetween the separate magnets 50 and having their heads tightened upagainst the outer sides of said magnets. The inner portions of theretaining-bolts 52, extending transversely across the interval betweenthe opposite or vertical legs of the field-magnets, are suitably boltedto the armature-casing 53, arranged between the opposite poles of theseries of magnets and essentially consisting of the separate pole-pieces54 of an approximately semicircular form and in firm metallic contactwith the ends of the magnets which are seated upon the said pole-pieces.The rotating armature 55 is of common construction, the same having theusual metallic body and pole-pieces and the ordinary windings of wire.The said rotating armature 55 of each generator carries the usualcommutator 56, Fig. 18, and is mounted upon the armatiu'e-shaft 57. Thisshaft has mounted on one end thereof the armature-pinion 5S, meshingwith a gear-wheel 59, mounted on the main operating-shaft 60. Thegearing for the armatures of both generators is the same and istherefore similarly lettered; but in the practical construction of theapparatus it is preferable to provide each generator with itsmotion-operating-shaft section 60, extending longitudinally through thegroup of fieldmagnets 50 and to couple the contiguous ends of the-shaftsection. for each generator by means of a shaft-coupling connection 61of suitable type, as plainly shown in the drawings. At one end of thegenerator-case 36 the motion-operating shaft 60 is extended through suchend of the case and is designed to have attached thereto anoperating-crank 62, as plainly shown in Fig. 1 of the drawings Inasmuchas each of the generators is equipped with a circuit-controlling deviceof the same construction and action, a description of one will sufficefor the other, and, referring particularly to the drawings, it will beobserved that the circuit-controlling device for each generator issupported at one side of the generator by means of a bracket-frame 63,which may be conveniently mounted dimember of the braclwt-frauie 63.

roctly on the end portions of the armaturecasing 53, as may be best seenin lliigs. 10, 1 1, and 12 of the drawings. This bracketframe 63 is of askeleton construction essentially consisting of opposite end bracketarms64 and suitable frame-pieces connected with the same; but for thepurposes of the present invention it is only essential for thebracket-frmne 63 to be provided with suitable bearing-supports for therotary circuitcontrolling drum 41-9 and a suitable guide or guides forthe sliding brush-holder 47, which carries the shiftable contact-brush4-8. To this end the bracket-frame 63 is provided at opposite endsthereof with bearings (55 for the drum-shaft (36, which derives itsmotion from a gear-wheel 67, mounted on one end thereof and meshing witha driving-pinion 68, mounted on the main operating-sliaft section 60.The said drum-slntft 66 provides a support for the circuit-eontrollii1gdrum 4-9, which is loosely mounted on the shaft, but is designed to becoupled thereon through the medium of a clutch device consisting of apivotal coupling-dog 69, pivotally mounted on one end of the drum, as at70, and provided at one side in its pivotal support with. an engaginghook 71, adapted to be normally pressed into engagement with the iixedclutch-shoulder 72, provided on the collar 73, mounted fast on the shaft66 at the end of the drum carrying the pivotal clutch-dog 69. Theengaging end of the hook 71 pressed directly into engagement with thefixed clutch-shoiilder 72 through the medium of a presser-spring 74, andat the side of its pivot opposite the engaging hook 71 the dog 69 isprovided with a trigger-linger 75, adapted to move into engagement witha fixed tapped projection 76, carried upon a trip-plate 77, normallyheld in the circular path of moven'ient of the clutch-dog 69 and itstrigger 75 through the n'iedium of an adjusting-spring 7S, interposedbetween the said trip-plate 77 and the adjacent -fixed The saidtrip-plate 77 of the clutch device just described is provided at its endwith the slidecollars 79, respectively, and slidably engaging the pairof guide-rods 80, carried by the bracket-frame 63 at one side of thecircuitcontroiling drum 49. The said pair of guiderods are arranged inspaced parallel relation, respectively, one above the other andreferably in di'll'erent vertical planes to provide for properlypositioning the parts carried thereby. In addition to constituting theguiding-support for the trip-plate 77 of the clutch device the saidguide-rods 80 also pro-' vide a guiding-support for the slidingbrushholder 47. This brush-holder 4:7 essentially consists of a bodyportion having the separate sleeve members 81, slidably engaging theseparate guide-rods SO and the oilstanding shifting extension 46, which,engages in the carrier-fork 45 of the selecting-pointer tact-brush 48,whose inner end 18 normally projected by spring-pressure into the pathof the graduated contact projections or ribs 84, provided on the surfaceof the drum 49. The outer end of the spring-pressed contactbrush 48 hasa wire connection therewith forming a part of the electrical circuithereinafter specifically referred to. In addition to its function ofcarrying the contact-brush 48 the sliding or shiftable brush-holder 47also provides for the tripping of the clutch device after each operationof the apparatus. To this end the brush-holder 47 is preferably providedat one side thereof with a bracingfinger 85, adapted to move beneath thetappet projection 76 of the trip-plate 77, and

the uppermost sleeve 81 of the brush-holder body is notched at one end,as at 86, to take over and work past a stop-pin 87, against which theplate 77 is normally moved by the pressure of its adjusting-spring 78.(See Fig. 14.) When selecting-pointer is moved back to zero, thetrip-plate is carried bythe brush-holder 47 out of contact with and toone side of the plane of the clutch-dog on the adjacent end. of the drum49. When the trip-plate is moved to this position, the tappet projection76 is free to engage with the clutch-dog of the drum and take up therotat on of the latter when the crank is operated.

The rotary circuit-controlling drum'of each generator is in the circuitwith one of the terminals of the armature-winding, or, in other words,with one of the brushes of the commutator 56, so that when one of thecontact bosses or ribs 84 is moved in contact with the inner end or noseof the brush 48 the circuit is closed for the purpose of operating thees capement of the indicator, and to provide for operating theescapement of the indicator the number of times to correspond with thenumber to be indicated on the dial the circuit-controlling drum 49 isprovided on the peripher thereof with the same number of contact-ribs 84as the numbers on the dial of the indicator. These contact-ribs arearranged in what may be termed a stepped or graduated order-i. 6., thesame are of progressively-decreasing length with reference to the end ofthe drum where the shiftable contact-brush lies at its starting or zeropoint. The said contact-ribs are raised a suflicient distance above theperiphei w of the drum-bod to move in eas; contact with the brush 43 andarranged in regularly-sp aced parallel relation. By reason of thestepped order or progressivel -decreasing length of the contact-ribs 84it will be'obvious that in selecting a number on either of thedial-segments 38 or 39 to be indicated it is necessary to move theselecting-pointer a sufficient dis, tance to carry the shiftablecontact-brush to a position where it will contact with that number ofribs 84 corresponding to the number to be indicated. For instance, ifthe number 2 is to be indicated on the dial of the indicator thecontact-brush is shifted to a position where it will contact with onlytwo of the ribs 84. This is controlled entirely by theselecting-pointers 38" and 39* and the dial-segments 38 and 39, whichdetermine the co rect positions of the shiftable contactbrushesaccording to the numbers selected for indication upon the separateindicators of the indicator mechanism.

One of the features of the invention resides in providing means forsounding line alarms or gongs while the apparatus is in operation. Thisis conveniently accomplished by the employment of a circuit-breakerdevice operated in connection with one of the circuit controlling drums.This circuitbreaker device essentially consists of a contact wheel 88,mounted fast on one end of one of the drum-shafts 66, and a plurality ofseparate circuit-closing pins 89. The said circuit-closing pins 89 areslidably and yieldingl mounted in an insulated holding-block 90,supported on one end of the adjacent bracket-frame 63 and adapted to beengaged by the peripheral contact-bosses 91, projecting from theperiphery of the wheel 88. Any desired number of the contact-bosses maybe provided on the fast contact-wheel 88 and are successively moved intocontact with and past the separate individual circuit-closing pins 89,whose active ends are projected under the influence of adjusting-springs92 and are arranged on the arc of a circle, as plainly shown in Fig. 11of the drawings. Each of the circuit-closing pins 89 of thecircuitbreaker device 88 89 has a separate wire connection therewith.

Rererring particularly to diagrammatic view Fig. 18 of the drawings,these separate wire connections are designated, respectivel; by thereference characters It, h, and 71?, which have connections withbinding-posts 93 94, and 95 on the case 36 of the generating mechanism.The binding-posts 93, 94, and 95 have similar multiple or parallelconnections 4, t, and i with the line-wire L, which has a returnconnection with the binding-post 96, also upon the generator-case 36.Each of the connections t, i, and t have included therein a line alarmor gong 0c, and it will be obvious that any number of these line alarmsor gongs maybe employed, according to the number of contacts in thecircuit-breaker device 88 89, and which alarms or gongs will be soundedduring the operation of the apparatus to send in an alarm to theindicator mechanism.

Another feature of the invention resides in the employment of agenerator-signal 97,

preferably in the form of a magneto-electric bell, mounted in or on thecase and one of whose terminals has a wire connection 76 with aspringcontact-brush 98, mounted on an insulated holder or support 99,arranged on the bracket-frame 63 of one of the generators andoverhanging one end of the circuit-controlling drum of that generator.The overhanging end of the contact-brush 98 is adapted to be engaged bythe longest contact-rib 84 once in each complete rotation of the drum49, so that when such drum has completed one rotation the longcontact-rib 84 thereof will come in contact with the brush 98 and closethe circuit through such brush, the wire connection 7c, thegenerator-signal 97, and the return-wire connection Z, which return-wireconnection is in circuit with the commutator 56 of the generator withwhich the signal spring contact-brush 98 is associated. The completionof this circuit gives an alarm or signal which indicates that the propernumber of turns of the generator have been made to provide for theoperation of the indicators A and B,according to the said. position ofthe shiftable contact-brushes 83.

The circuit-wire connections for the generating and indicatingmechanisms include the separate oppositely-arranged safetycircuit-closers 99 and 100, disposed in approximate relationrespectively to the separate generators G and G. The circuit-closers 99and 100 are of duplicate construction, each consisting of a pair ofnormally contacting spring contact plates 101 and 102, springcontact-plate 101 projecting above the end of the contact-plate 102 andadapted to be engaged by the insulated opening-button 102, carried atthe inner side of the swinging shipper-arm 44 of each selectingpointer.By reason of this construction andv arrangement when theselecting-pointers are swung back to the zero-point both of thecircuit-closers 99 and 100 are opened, thus preventing the electricaloperation of the apparatus until the selecting pointers are moved to anumber-indication of the dialsegment and in thus moving away from thezero-point permit the springs 101 of the safety circuit-closers to moveback into contact with the other opposing springs 102.

To provide for the convenient mounting of the parts within the case 36of the generating mechanism, the various wire connections for thegenerating mechanism are fitted to or embedded in the mechanism base 51and at their leading-out or leading-in ends are connected tocontact-springs 103, secured on the base 51 adjacent to the back edgethereof, as plainly shown in Figs. 12 and 13 of the drawings, and whensaid base is fitted in position within the case 36 are designed tocontact with correspondingly positioned contactplates 104, fitted to theback of the case 36," but as the wire connections with the plates 104are practical continuations of those connected with the springs 103similar reference characters are employed in the diagrann matic Fig. 18.Also in this connection it will be observed that the continuations ofthe wires connected. with the contact-plates 104 are connected with thevarious bindingposts 93 94 95 96 a b c. For convenience in following outthe circuits the several points of connection 103 104 are additionallydesig nated. in the diagrammatic Fig. 18 by the characters I II III, &c.

Referring to the wiring not mentioned heretofore, it is to be observedthat the shiftable contact-brush 48 for the generator G has afollower-wire connection m, which permits the free shifting of thebrush, and the continuation of this wire connection on is connected withthe connecting-point V I. The corresponding follower-wire connection mfor the brush of the generator G connects with the connecting-point VII,and from. thence to the binding-post I). The return binding-post cconnects with the point VIII, and from thence through the wire a to theinsulated contact-brush 105 in metallic contact with the end of thearmature-shaft of the generator G. A corresponding or similarcontactbrush 106 is in contact with one end of the armature-shaft of thegenerator G and has a wire connection 0 with. the contact 101 of thecircuit -closer, which. has connected therewith the wire connection Z,previously referred to, while a corresponding wire connection Z connectsthe contact 102 of the other circuit-closer 100 with the connectingpointV and with the binding-post 96, as plainly shown in the diagram. Abranch. return-wire connection 107 connects the contact 101 of thecircuit-closer 100 with. the corresponding contact of the circuit-closer 9 9 of the wire connection 0 for such contact.

Referring more particularly to the general operation of the system orapparatus, assuming that an alarm is to be sent in for fire-district 23,the selecting-pointer 38 of generator G is swung over the dial-segment38 to number 2 on such segment and the pointer 39'" of generator G isswung over to the number 3 point on the dial-segment 39. This adjustmentof the selecting-pointers positions the shiftable contact-brushes forthe generators G G so that the same will be respectively engaged by twoand three of the contact-ribs of the respective controllii'igdrums 49.Then the operator grasps the crank-handle 62 and rotates the mainoperating shaft-section 60, which in turn transmits motion to thearmatures and cireuit-controlling drums of the separate generators G andG. Under such conditions the action of each generator is as follows: Inthe generator G as the circuitcontrolling drum 44 thereof rotates itsuccessively carries two of its ribs 84 in contact with the brush. 48.At each of these contacts the circuit is completed from the armature ofthe generator through the contact-drum, brush 48, wire m, point VI,binding-post a, wire g, wire (I, magnets 30, wire (1, return-wiref,binding-post 0, wire n, brush 1.05, and shafting to armature forgenerator G. At each closing of the circuit thus described the magnets30operate the escapement device in the manner described and cause thehand of the indicator A to move to number 2 on the dial for thatindicator. During the same operation three of the contacts 84 of thecontrolling-drum of generator G successively contact with the brush 48for that generator and three times close the following circuit: fromarmature of generator G to drum 49 of that generator, contactbrush 48,wire m, binding-post 1), wire 9, wire (2, magnets 30 of indicator B,wire a, binding-post 0, wire f return binding-post 0, wire it,contact-brush 105, and armature of generator G. The successive closingof this circuit operates indicator B three times, and thus causes thehand thereof to move to num ber 3 on the dial. During this sameoperation the line-alarm circuits are closed intermittently through thewires h h 7L2 and i t i to the line-wire L and return through wire Z orZ and safety circuit-closers 99 and 1.00, wire 0, brush 106, and frameto armature of generator to drum 49 of said generator G, contact-wheel88, circuit-closing pins 89. When the circuit-controlling drums havemade one complete revolution, the generatorsignal circuit comes intoplay in the manner previously described and sounds the bell or signal97, thereby indicating that a sufficient number of turns have been madefor the generator-operating shaft. Also when each circuit-controllingdrum makes a complete rotationzthe trigger-finger 7 5 of the pivotalclutchdog 69 is carried into engagement with and against the fixedtappet projection 76 of the trip-plate 77, which causes the clutch-dogto become disengaged from the clutch-shoulder 7 2, thereby stopping therotation of the drum, while that of the shaft 66 and its collar 7 3continues After thus using the apparatus the pointers are moved back tozero, thus carrying with the same the brush-holders 47, which moveagainst the trip-plates 77 and release the dogs 69 of the clutchdevices, thereby permitting the springs 74 to readjust the hooks 71 intothe path of the fixed clutchshoulders 7 2. At the same time both safetycircuit-closers 99 and 100 are opened up, as already referred to.

From the foregoing it is thought that the construction, operation, andmany advantages of the herein-described fire-alarm systern will bereadily apparent Without further description, and it will be understoodthat various changes in the form, proportion, and minor details ofconstruction may be resorted to without departing from the scope of thein vention or sacrificing any of the advantages thereof.

In connection with the operation. of the foregoing circuits it should bestated that the controlling-drums 49 of the separate generators G G areset so as to operate out of unison-i 0., only one of the shiftablecon.tact brushes makes contact with its respective drum at one time, sothat the circuits for the indicators A and B are opened and closedalternately. By reason of this arrangement there is no interference ofcircuits, and it should be further noted that the terminals for thearmature-winding of each generator are respectively connected to thearmatureshaft and the frame of the generator. To illustrate this, theconventional brushes are diagrammatically indicated in Fig. 18 of thedrawings. Hence by suitable insulation the shafting and metal frameparts of the gen erators are utilized as parts of the circuits.

Having thus described the invention, what is claimed, and desired to besecured by Let ters Patent, is

1. In a fire-alarm system, an electromagnetic indicator, amagneto-electric generator having a circuit-controlling devicecomprising a rotary drum provided with stepped contacts, means forrotating said drum, means for stopping the drum at the completion of onerevolution, a shiftable contact-brush, and a selector for positioningthe brush; and circuit-wire connections between the indicator andgenerator.

2. In a fire-alarnr system, an electromag netic indicator, amagneto-electric generator having a circuit-controlling devicecomprising a rotary drum provided with stepped con tacts, means forrotating said drum and for causing the same to automatically stop at thecompletion of one revolution, a shiftable brush cooperating with thecontacts, and a selector for positioning the brush; and cir c'uit-wireconnections between the indicator and generator.

3. In a fire-alarm system, an electromagnetic indicator, amagneto-electric generator having a circuit-controlling devicecomprising a rotary drum and having stepped contacts, means for rotatingthe drum with the armature of the generator, means for automaticallyclutching and unclutching the drum to effect its rotation and also thestoppage thereof at the completion of one revolution, a shiftable brushcooperating with the contacts, and a selector for positioning the brush;and circuit-wire connections including the indicator, the generator, andthe circuit-controlling device.

4. In a fire-alarm system, an electromagnetic indicator, amagneto-electric generator having a circuit-control!ing devicecomprising a rotary drum provided with stepped contacts, means forrotating the drum with the armature, a clutch device for the drum com-IIO prising means for causing the same to stop at the completion of onerevolution, a shiftable contact-brush, and a selector for positioningthe brush; and circuit-wire connections including the indicator, thegenerator and the circuit-controlling device.

5. In a fire-alarm system, an electromagnetic indicator, amagneto-electric generator having a circuit-controlling devicecomprising arotary irum provided with step ed contacts, means forrotating the drum with the armature, a clutch device comprising meansfor automatically stopping the drum at the completion of one revolution,a shiftable con.- tactbrush, and a selector for the brush, the movementof the brush to a Zero or initial position providing means for trippingthe clutch device to its clutching position; and circuit- Wireconnections including the imticator, the generator and thecircuit-controlling device.

6. I11 a fire-alarm system, an electromagnetic indicator, anmgneto-electrio generator having a circuit-controlling devicecomprising a rotary drum provided with stepped contacts, means forrotating the drum with the armature, a clutch device including a trip member and comprising mean s for automatically stopping the drum at thecompletion of one revolution, a shiftable brush-holder carrying acontact-brush for the stepped contacts, and a selector for positioningthe brushholder and moving the same against said trip member; andcircuit-wire connections including the indicator, the generator and thecircuit-controlling device.

7. In a "lire-alarm system, an elect omegnetic indicator, amagneto-electric generator having a circuit-controlling devicecomprising a rotary drum provided. with stepped contacts, a clutchdevice including the clutch elements carried respectively by the drumand its shaft, and a trip member for releasing one of the clutchelements, a shittable brushholder carrying a contact-brush and movableagainst said trip member to reset the clutch, and a selector forpositioning the brush-holder; and circuit-wire connections including theindicator, the generator, and the circuit-controlling device.

8. In a fire-alarm system, an electromagnetic indicator, amagneto-electric generator having a circuit-controlling device compising a drum-shaft geared with the generatorshaft, a rotary drum looseon the shaft anrl provided with stepped contacts, a clutch deviceincluding separate clutch elements carried respectively by the drum andits shaft, and a movable trip member normally in the path of one of theclutch elements to release the same at each complete revolution of thedrum, a shiftable brush holder movable against said trip member, and aselector for positioning the brush-holder; and circuitwlre connectionsincluding the indicator, the

9. In a fire-alarm system, an electromagnetic indicator, amagneto-electric generator having circuit-controlling device comprisinga drum-shalt geared with the generatorshntt, a rotary drun'i looselymounted on the shaft and provided with stepped contacts, a clutch deviceincluding a fixed clutch-shoulder on the druni-shatt, a spring-pressedpivotal clutch-dog pivotally mounted on the drum, and a shit z.ble tripmember mounted on a fixed support and having a tappet for engagementwith the clutch-ghig to release the same from the fixed clutch-shn1lder, a shittable Inush-holdcr mot able against said trip member torel .isc the clutch-dog alter a complete revolution of the drum, and aselector tor positioning the hrush-holdm'; an circuit-wire connectionsincluding the indicator, the generator" and the circuit-con.- trollingdevice.

10. In a tire-alarm system, an electrmnagnetic indicator, an'iagncto-electric generatm' having a supporting-i'rame and acircuit-controlling device carried by the latter, said.circuit-controlling device con'iprising a drumshal t having a iiixedclutch-shoulder, a rotary drum loose on the shaft and provided withstepped contacts and a pivotal spring pressed clutcl'i-dog cooperatingwith said shoulder and provided with a trigger, a spring-pressedtrip-plate slidably mounted on the supportingtran1e and having a "fixedtappet projection norn'ially lying in the path of the trigger of theclutch-dog, a shi'ltable brush-holder also slidably mounted on thesupporting-l rame and ITIOVi'LlJlO against said trip-plate, saidbrush-holder carrying a contact-brush cooperating with the contacts,means tor rotating the (hum-shaft, and a selector for positioning thebrush-holder; and circuit-wire connections including the indicator, thegenerator, and the circuit-controlling device.

1]. In a ire-alarm system, an electromagnetic indicator, amagnetc-electric generator having a bracket-frame provided with a pairof guide-rods, a drum-shalt su] )portcd on the frame and geared with thegenerator-sha'tt, a rotary drum loose on the sha'tt and provided withstepped contacts, a clutch device including a fixed clutch-shmrlder onthe shaft, a spring-pressed pivotal clutch-dog on the drum, ard aspring-pressed trip-plateslidably mounted on the guide-rods and normallylying in the path ot the clutch-dog, a shittablo brush-holder havingseparate sleeve portions slidably engaging the separate guide-rods andmovable against the trip-plate to reset the clutch, said brush-holdercarrying a contact-brush, and a selector tor positioning the brush andcircuit-wire coimcctions including the indicator, the generator, and thecircuitcontrolling device.

12. In a lire-alarm system, an electromaggenerator, and thecircuit-controlling device. l netic indicator, a magneto-electricgenerator netic indicator, a magneto-electric generator having acircuit-controlling device comprising a rotary drum provided with aplurality of contacts, means for automatically stopping the drum at thecompletionof one revolution, a shiftable brush, and a selector for.

positioning the brush; and circuit-wire connections between theindicator, the gener ator, and the circuit-controlling device, andincluding a normally closed safety circuitcloser, said circuit-closerbeing engaged and opened by the selector when the latter is moved to thezero position.

14. In a fire-alarm system, an electromagnetic indicator, amagneto-electric generator having a circuit-controlling devicecomprising a single rotary drum provided with a plurality of contacts,means for rotating the drum and also for automatically stopping itsrotation, a shiftable brush cooperating with the contacts, a dialcorrespondingly numbered to the dial of the indicator, and a selectingpointer playing over said dial and operatively connected with the brushfor positioning the same; and circuit-wire connections between theindicator, the generator, and the circuit-closing device.

15. In a fire-alarm system, an electromagnet indicator, amagneto-electric generator having a circuit-controlling devicecomprising a rotary drum provided with contacts, a shiftablebrush-holder carrying a contactbrush and provided with a shiftingextension, a numbered dial, a swinging selector playing over said dialand carrying a forked shifter-arm engaging said shifting extension ofthe brush-holder, said shifter-arm also carrying an insulatedopening-button; and circuit-Wire connections between the indicator, thegenerator, and the circuit-controlling device, and including a normallyclosed safety circuit-closer engaged and opened by said opening-buttonwhen the selector is moved to the zero position.

16. In a lire-alarm system, an electromag: n etic indicator, amagneto-electric generator,

having a circuit-controlling device comprising a rotary drum providedwith stepped contacts, means for rotating said drum, means for stoppingthe drum at the completion of one revolution, a shiftable contact-brush,

and a selector for positioning the brush; circuit-wire connectionsbetween the indicator and generator, and a generator-signal including analarm and a local circuit for the alarm adapted to be closed by one ofthe drum-contacts after a complete revolution of the drum.

17. In a ire-alarm system, an electromagnetic indicator, and amagneto-electric generator having a circuit-controlling devicecomprising a rotary. contact-drum, a shiftable brush for the drum,selecting means for the brush, means for stopping the rotation of thedrum at the completion of one revolution thereof, and a generator-signalincluding an alarm and a local circuit for the alarm having a springcontact-brush arranged .to be engaged by one of the drum-contacts aftera complete revolution of the-drum; and circuit-.wire connections betweenthe indicator, the generator, and the circuit-controlling device.

18. In a fire-alarm system, an electromagnetic indicator, and amagneto-electric generator in circuit with the indicator, said gen-.erator having means for successively sounding a pluralityof line-alarmsduring the operation of the apparatus, and also having separate means.for sounding a generatorsignal after a complete operation of theindicator.

19. In a ire-alarm system, an electromagnetic indicator mechanism, and.a generating mechanism comprising separate magnetoelectric generators incircuit with the mechanism, a generator-signal including a localsignal-circuit controlled by one of the generators, and a line-alarmincluding a plurality of alarm-circuits controlled successively by theother of said generators.

20. In a lire-alarm system, an indicator mechanism, and a generatingmechanism in circuit with the indicator mechanism and comprisingseparate magneto-electric generators each having a circuit-controllingdevice, agenerator-signal including a local circuit controlled by thecircuit-controlling device of one generator after a complete operationthereof, and a line-alarm consisting of a plurality of alarms and localcircuits therefor controlled successively by the circuit-controllingdevice of the other generator at intervals during the operation of thelatter.

21. In. a "fire-alarm system, an indicator mechanism, a generatingmechanism comprising separate magneto-electric generators each having acircuit-controlling device consisting of a contact-drum and a shiftablecontact-brush, a generator-signal including a local alarm-circuit havinga single contactbrush engaged. by a contact of the drum of one generatorat each complete revolution of said drum, and a line-alarm consisting ofa plurality of alarms and circuits therefor, and. a circuit-breakerdevice comprising a plural ICO lIO

contact-wheel mounted upon the drum-shaft of the othercircuit-controlling device, an insulated holding-block, and a group ofyieldable spring-projected circuit-closing pins engaged by the contactsof said wheel.

22. In a fire-alarm system, an indicator mechanism, a generatingmechanism comprising separate magneto-electric generators, each having acircuit-controlling device con sisting of a rotary contact-drum, ashiftable brush therefor, and a selector for positioning the brush;circuit-wire connections between the indicating mechanism, the separategenerators, and said circuit-controlling devices, line-alarm circuits, alocal-generator signalcircuit, and separate normally closed safetycircuit-closers included in the return connections for the aforesaidseveral circuits and adapted to be opened and held opened by theselectors when moved to the zero position.

23. In a fire-alarm system, an indicator mechanism comprising separateindicators each having a hand-controlling escapement device, and agenerating mechanism comprising separate magneto electric generatorshaving independently-adjusted circuit-closing devices respectively incircuit with the separate indicators.

24. In a fire-alarm system, an indicator mechanism comprising separateelectro-magnetic indicators each having a hand-controlling escapementdevice, and a generating mechanism comprising separate magnetoelectricgenerators coupled together for operation in unison and both havingcircuit-com trolling devices consisting of a rotary contact-drum, ashiftable brush therefor, and a selector for positioning the brush, saidseparate generators being respectively in circuit with the separateindicators and having a common circuit-return connection.

25. In a fire-alarm system, an indicator comprising a casing having awindow with a central opening therein, a stationary dialring supportedat the inner side of the window, a forked supporting-pedestal arrangedwithin the casing, an indicator-shaft journaled in the arms of thepedestal-fork and carrying a hand located between the window and thedial-ring, a detachable exterior setting-knob extending through thecentral opening of the window and connected to the outer end of theindicator-shaft, a weighted actuating connection for the shaft having aguiding-support above the plane of the shaft, an escape-wheel mounted onthe shaft at one side of the actuating connection therefor, an insulatedmechanism base secured horizontally within the fork of thesupporting-pedestal, a release-pallet pivotally supported on the baseand cooperating with the esca )ewheel, yielding means for moving thepallet in one direction, release-magnets on the base for moving thepallet in an opposite direction, and a generator having anoperatingcircuit including said release-magnets.

In testimony whereof I aflix my signature in presence of two witnesses.

PEARL E. TARLTON.

Witnesses J. G. PARK, FRANK KAUFMANN.

